February 10, 1942-February 27, 2026 (84)  With sorrow and deep love, our family mourns the passing of Nicholas William Kuzemka, 84 (Colonel, ret. USAF), of Stuart, FL, on Friday, February 27th. He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Carole; his four children, Damon (Kathy), Aaron (Tracy), Justin (Cindy), and Melaina (Kyle); his sister, Nancy; and his 14 cherished grandchildren. Nick lived a remarkable life, bringing love, humor, and joy to everyone he met.

Born and raised in Donora, PA, Nick's deep faith and love of family, country, and competition were shaped early at St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, where he served as an altar boy. He met Carole in high school before attending the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he played football, sang with the Glee Club, and began a lifetime of service. Nick and Carole—good-natured rivals for valedictorian—married in 1963. He later earned a master's in Industrial Engineering from Georgia Tech and a Juris Doctor from George Washington University. During Nick's 26-year Air Force career, he and Carole raised their family across the country and around the world. His devotion to them was constant. He was a leader in every community he joined, coaching youth sports, serving in church, and bringing an infectious enthusiasm that made people want to be around him. Nick was genuinely curious about everyone he met, and his warmth made the Kuzemka home a gathering place throughout the 1980s. Nick's zest for life was one of his greatest gifts. He loved music—whether singing in church, with the Glee Club, or leading car singalongs—and he never missed a chance to dance with Carole. He loved competition in all forms, from sports to backyard games to handicapping at the racetrack. After retiring, Nick began a second career with Lockheed Martin before settling in Northern Virginia, where he delighted in cheering on his grandchildren at countless games and performances. He and Carole created "Camp Kuzemka," a week of activities, contests, and cherished memories—always featuring his signature breakfast of cereal and ice cream. In retirement, Nick and Carole divided their time between Florida and Virginia, enjoying new friendships while staying close to family. Nick will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He leaves behind an enduring example of faith, citizenship, and loyalty to family—an example his loved ones will carry forward. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery .  Nick (second from right) is seen here with President Eisenhower at West Point in 19662.